and 45 minutes from Dulles International Airport, Magnolia Hill is a charming and lovingly maintained farmhouse dating back to 1880. Nestled into the rolling hills of Virginia’s horse, wine and hunt country, the house is a short distance from 18th century village of Middleburg, which CNN recently listed as one of the world's 'Ten Romantic Destinations You Should Know About'. Soak in the charm of c
ountry life from the covered front porch of Magnolia Hill, which gives way to picturesque views of a 40-foot magnolia tree and a rambling creek that crosses the front of the property. In warmer months fire up the barbeque grill and host a garden party in the large backyard, where you can watch the sun set behind an abandoned silo, and both horses and cows that graze across the ridge of the adjacent property. In cooler months, roast marshmallows over an outdoor fire pit or strike up a fire and settle in by the hearth of one of the home’s two indoor working fireplaces. The 2,176 square foot, sun-drenched, yellow stucco home offers three comfortable and inviting bedrooms: a master with a queen bed, a guest room with a queen bed, and a second guest room with two twin beds. There are two and a half bathrooms; spacious kitchen, dining and living rooms; and a cozy den. Random plank hardwood floors dating back to the early-mid 20th century, antique furnishings, and a second staircase built as part of a two-story rear wing extension, lend extra character to the home. The towns of Middleburg, Upperville, Marshall, and The Plains, which offer a variety of farm-to-table restaurants, high end shops, local butchers, the National Sporting Library & Museum, and a world-class spa facility, all are within a 10-20 minute drive. Dozens of other area attractions, including Sky Meadows State Park and Shenandoah State Park, are a 20-30 minute driving distance away. For lovers of the outdoors, the area offers spectacular vistas of rolling farmland and vineyards from meandering country roads—perfect for biking or afternoon drives. Nature enthusiasts can spot one of dozens of bird types, as well as deer, rabbit, fox and other animals; hike some of the region’s best trails in Shenandoah; or enjoy the ever-changing symphony of wild flowers that spring up alongside the road in the spring and summer. History buffs will enjoy learning about the historic district of Rectortown, in which the house sits. The Manassas Gap Railroad stop that John Rector, after whom Rectortown was named, was influential in creating still carries cargo trains by less than a quarter of a mile down the road. The old Rectortown railroad storehouse, visible from the stone bridge giving access to the property, is one of the many Civil War historic landmarks in the area. A list of links to area restaurants, attractions and events—including twilight polo matches, horse shows, vineyards offering dinner and wine pairings, and seasonal festivals and fairs—is available to renters upon request. The house has an HD flat screen TV, satellite TV with 120 channels, a DVD player, and wireless internet suitable for emailing and basic web browsing. The cozy den with working fireplace also offers books available for use at the house. Don't see anything you like there? Take a walk to the Rectortown Post Office where you'll find a Little Free Library with additional books for borrowing. The house can sleep a maximum of six guests. Pets are not allowed without advance permission.
